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How to Take Better Travel Photos

It goes without saying that photos are integral to any traveller’s holiday. How else are we supposed to show all our Facebook/Instagram friends all the places we have been? For amateur photographers, here are some tips to eschew run-of-the-mill photos for ones that will have your friends green with envy.

Take action shotsDon’t just plonk your whole family in front of a scene/landmark and start snapping away. Take some action shots – kids licking at their ice-cream cones, parents holding hands as they take in the views. Snapshots like these evoke fond memories better than any still photo of a mountain/lake ever could.

Experience before action
When you arrive at a location, take the time to explore and experience your destination before whipping out your camera. Don’t be stuck experiencing your whole vacation behind your camera lens. Plus, this gives you time to think about your location and how best to capture it.

Pay attention to the lighting
General rule of thumb is that the light needs to be behind you in order to get the most flattering shine on your subject.

Take advantage of the time of the day
Outdoor shots taken in the middle of the day can appear harsh and overly bright. The hours after sunrise and before sunset can lend depth and texture to the blandest of shots. Also, bad weather with its low, overhanging clouds and gloomy skies, can lead to striking photos.

Don’t just take postcard shots
If you want a postcard shot, buy a postcard. Instead, focus on something other than the landmark shot, like a couple cuddling in front of the Eiffel Tower or a group of camels near the Giza Pyramids.

Rule of thirds
This simple composition technique gives life to a photograph with minimal skill and effort. Mentally divide the frame into 3 sections (left, center and right) and place the main subject either entirely on the left or right side, or onto the line dividing two sections. If you are taking photos with your phone camera, you might want to try using the Instagram app, which comes with a grid function.

Juxtapose sizes
Including a secondary subject to the frame gives context to the size of the main subject. For example, the father and son standing at the door conveys the grandeur and immensity of the cathedral.